Shatudru is the ancient name of Sutlej River and it is mentioned
in the Hindu scriptures. There is an interesting story as to how Shatudru River
got its name.
Legend has it that a man-eating Rakshasa entered the body of
King Saudasa. He then roamed around forest eating human beings. One day he
devoured all the 100 sons of Sage Vasishta.
Unable to bear the loss of his sons, the sage attempted to
kill himself. But all his attempts failed.
He then threw himself into Sutlej River which was infested
with crocodiles. The Sage hoped that the crocodiles would kill him.
But the River divided itself into hundred rivers and
followed in hundred directions to save the Sage.
As the river divided itself into hundred it came to be known
as Shatudru.